‘There is a feeling’: Journo predicts United could sign £115m star for £40m less this year | OneFootball

Although Brighton and Hove Albion maintain that they want to keep hold of Carlos Baleba for the foreseeable future, Manchester United are expected to revive their pursuit in the summer.

If they do, it won’t be the first time the Red Devils have tested Brighton’s resolve for the midfielder.

United and Baleba: What happened last year?

(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

In the closing stages of the 2025 summer window, United approached the Seagulls to gauge the feasibility of hashing out a deal, with Baleba himself said to be keen on a move to Old Trafford.

Nothing materialised from the talks due to Brighton’s hefty demands; they’re thought to value the 22-year-old in the same region as Moises Caicedo, who sold for £115 million when he signed for Chelsea in 2023.

However, MailSport’s Nathan Salt has now predicted that Baleba could leave for a much lower fee.

“Around the league, there is a feeling that Brighton will cash in come June and Baleba will be on the move for a price tag north of £60m, likely closer to £75m,” said Salt.

He adds that, unlike some of the player’s other suitors, United are unfazed by Baleba’s drop in performances throughout the campaign.

Before departing for the African Cup of Nations in December, the youngster had been withdrawn at the interval in three matches and dropped from the XI twice.

Has United’s interest been playing on Baleba’s mind?

(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Fabian Hurzeler suggested back in September that United’s approach had likely had an impact on Baleba’s mindset – hence his form fluctuating.

“For sure, when a young boy reads there is interest from Manchester United with a big, big offer, it might affect him deep, deep down,” the German coach told reporters.

“That’s also part of the development to understand that when you play well, there comes a big offer, there comes a big club that wants to have him.”

The Cameroonian international is contracted to the Amex until 2028, after which Brighton have the option of extending his tenure by an additional 12 months.

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